
Slow Girls Strength Class
A Strength Class for the Girls
Sydney Hara founded Slow Girls Run Club to create a safe, inclusive space for women to participate in fitness without judgement or shame, which aligned perfectly with the values of Inclusive Strength.
Naturally, we partnered up to offer a strength class for the followers of Slow Girls Run Club to help make resistance training more accessible to women. Even if you haven’t attended a group run yet or never touched a barbell in your life, the Slow Girls Strength Class meets you wherever you’re at on your fitness journey.
FAQs
Why should I attend the Slow Girls strength class?
Women often overdo it on cardio and tend to avoid strength training (lifting heavy weights for 4-6 reps) and building muscle (moderate weight for 8-15 reps, sometimes to muscular failure). However, studies show that women who lift weights are less prone to injuries and chronic disease, have better bone density and metabolisms, and have healthier joints for stronger runs! Plus it’s super empowering and fun!
I haven’t attended a Slow Girls run—can I still join the strength class?
Participating in the Slow Girls runs is NOT a requirement to join the strength class, but they’re definitely worth checking out! So long as you are part of the Slow Girls community and follow them on Instagram, you are eligible to sign up.
Will I get bulky?
Firstly, what is so bad about getting bulky? Women are allowed to take up space and be strong, so let’s normalize bulky. But if you’re still afraid of getting too muscular, rest assured that getting bulky takes years of hard work, the perfect diet, regimented training, great genetics, and possibly performance enhancing drugs.
How do I sign up?
This is a drop-in class (cost is $35+GST) so you can sign up whenever you want by following the link in the bio of Inclusive Strength or Slow Girls Run Club on Instagram or through the calendar below.
Is there a late cancellation fee?
Since space is limited, any cancellations within 12 hours of class will not be issued a refund.
How many people are in a class?
Classes are capped at 12 people so you get individual attention from the trainer to learn the lifts, and everyone works at their own pace.
Where does the class take place?
Class is hosted at Thunder & Lightning Athletic Club: 427 Granville Street, Vancouver, in the basement of the United Kingdom building (the stairwell is located outside to the left of the building’s main entrance). The easiest way to get there is by skytrain since it’s very close to Waterfront station.
What can I expect at the gym?
We typically have most of the gym to ourselves since it is a private training gym. There are plenty of racks, barbells, plates, and weights so everyone can have their own little station to work at during class. All of the ladies are super fun, encouraging, and welcoming.
When does the class run?
Every Monday and Thursday at 7pm. If there are fewer than 4 people signed up by 2pm Monday/Thursday, the class will be cancelled and drop-ins will be refunded.
What is the difficulty level of the class?
From beginners to advanced, all female lifters are welcome! Workouts are easily scalable to meet you where you’re at so you feel adequately challenged.
What is the class format?
Every class is a full body strength session that incorporates barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells, bands, and bodyweight exercises. Typically, there are two complexes, the first of which starts with a main barbell lift that’s usually around 5 reps at a heavy weight of your choice. The second complex will be accessory work at lighter loads for higher reps.